Using sexuality in marketing to teens
Researchers say that sexuality in teen marketing and media is not only increasing, but becoming more explicit. New studies link sexuality in the media to teen trends. And while they agree, some experts say that it is just the nature of a teenager, not something caused by the media.
 

Advertising affects males in different ways
Parents and marketing professionals say that advertising has a great influence on teenage males, and that teens are especially concerned about image and peers, possibly making them more susceptible to advertising messages.

Teen dollars prove elusive for marketers
Teens are a viable and profitable source for companies that are doing everything in their power to attract them.  Some experts, and teens themselves, say marketers may have gone too far.

Teens spending into uncertain financial future
Teen spending rose to $175 billion in 2003.  Parents are giving teens more money, but as a result, teens are spending more in their quest to be hip. These factors are creating an unpredictable financial future for today's teens.

Open burning: a tradition to discard
With the addition of new household products each year, burning debris creates negative immediate and long-term effects for both humans and their surroundings.

City ensures water safety in Union
The City of Eau Claire has indefinite plans to protect rural wells from groundwater contamination caused by an old landfill in the Town of Union, city officials say.

Technology changes paper use
Both the University of Wisconsin--Eau Claire and the Eau Claire Area School District have changed the ways they use paper.  Technology upgrades at the university have resulted in using less paper.  The ECASD also has integrated technologies into schools, but paper use continues to rise.

Paper company uses waste to enhance soil
Cascades Tissue Group - Wisconsin Inc., an Eau Claire paper mill, generates seemingly useless sludge.  But the company spreads the waste on area farm land to enhance soil quality rather than landfill it.

Hospital waste gets special treatment
The healthcare industry creates infectious and hazardous waste.  They are both separated and then treated at alternative sites to ensure the safety of employees, patients and surrounding communities.
 

Regis High School senior Rachel Albrecht makes a move around Fall Creek sophomore Amy Schilling during a Friday night game at Regis last year. Albrecht also runs track, participates in numerous community service activities, tutors at St. Olaf Elementary School and is involved in Student Council, all while maintaining a 3.9 cumulative GPA. (Photo courtesy of the Eau Claire Leader-Telegram by Butch McCartney)

Overprogramming affects health, social life
Whether it's parents forcing their kids to be involved or kids voluntarily joining groups, their health and social lives are altered with less free time, family and religious time. The fast pace of life may leave children feeling burned out.

Opinions mixed on children's busy schedules
Young children are spending more and more time away from home in organized activities, and the consequences impact not only them but also their parents. Some parents accept busy schedules, but researchers and educators raise concerns.

Youth sports participation on the rise
Elementary-aged kids are playing more sports at an earlier age  than ever before.  Sports keep children busy year round,  but many kids are struggling with the time and pressure that comes with athletics.

Market targets busy parents and kids
Marketing products and services to accommodate the busy child and parent is a major industry in the United States.  Companies are now refocusing their marketing and advertising efforts to attract members of this new generation to their products.

What a soldier leaves behind while on duty
Members of the military leave their families behind to serve their country.   Relocation, financial concerns and emotional issues are just a few problems that occur to those who live the military life.

A war no peace treaty can resolve
The latest war in Iraq is creating effects that range beyond economics.  It is leaving potentially long-lasting effects on the soldiers returning home.  A recent study shows one in eight soldiers is diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Gap between working poor and America wider
In recent years, the problems of the working poor have gotten worse. Many families in the nation are struggling to get by and the gap between them and the rest of society is widening. More than 800 local families are living below the poverty line.

Cuts jeopardize Hmong employment program
As a new wave of Hmong immigrants arrives in Wisconsin, cuts to a state Hmong employment and training program mean those who lack technical skills and knowledge of English may find it more difficult to escape the ranks of the working poor.

Lack of benefits creates problems 
Often employees without health insurance suffer consequences to their health and economic well-being.  They also face public misconceptions about who they are.  Nearly 16 percent of Americans are uninsured, according to U.S. Census data.